Along with fireworks and trips to the beach, the Fourth of July is also known for an increased amount of drunk drivers. To keep the roads safe, several law enforcement agencies are deploying a majority of their personnel to conduct an enforcement period extending through the holiday weekend.
“We want people to enjoy the holiday, but we also want them to be safe,” Picayune Police Assistant Chief Jeremy Magri said. “If you plan on drinking, plan to have a designated driver in advance.”
The Picayune Police Department will start its enforcement period Friday, sending out a bulk of its officers to set up roadblocks and patrol the city through July 4.
“Our officers will be out to ensure the safety of the citizens of Picayune,” Magri said.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol will also be sending a large number of troopers out on the roads to ensure the safety of those traveling the highways, MHP Troop K Public Affairs Trooper Chase Elkins said.
That enforcement period will begin at 6 p.m. Friday and extend through Wednesday.
Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Shane Tucker said the department is not holding an enforcement period during the holiday weekend, but urges drivers to be aware and cautious of drivers who may be under the influence.
“If you are traveling next week, make sure to pay extra attention to your surroundings,” Tucker said. “If another vehicle is drifting from one lane to another or is weaving, stay a safe distance from that vehicle and then call 911. Let us know so we can make sure they don’t create an accident for someone else down the road.”
Calls to the Poplarville Police Department were not returned by press time Thursday.